Why a Will Is Your Best 2013 Resolution

Writing a Will might not be as popular as committing to going to the gym every day or ditching that diet soda habit. But it’s a lot easier! It’s also just as important. You prioritize taking care of your health—but who’s taking care of your loved ones and assets when you pass?

Pick a 2013 resolution that’s affordable and simple. Writing a Will is something a lot of people leave on the back burner. But it’s the best way to make sure everyone is taken care of. Spending a few minutes drafting your Will can make a world of difference.

Take Care of Loved Ones

You want to make sure your spouse or partner is well cared for now and always, right? Well, you’re the one who can make it happen. When you’re gone, they’ll be grieving, and the last thing you want them to do is deal with a tangled estate. You want to make sure they have everything they need? That’s what a Will’s for.

Maybe there are certain people in your life who need special care—like a disabled relative or Mom and Dad in the retirement home. What happens if you’re paying for their care, and something happens to you? Problems can spiral out of control, but not if you’re prepared.

Who’s Watching the Kids?

If you don’t have a Will, the answer is, “Who knows?” All the conversations in the world can’t magically make someone their guardian. You have to have your wishes in writing. Maybe you don’t want your children defaulting to the first relative in line—but that’s what could happen if you don’t take care of business.

Nobody likes to think about worst case scenarios. However, when kids are in the picture, you have to. Don’t assume that a certain person will automatically get guardianship. An estranged grandparent might come out of the woodwork and fight for custody. Keep things simple, and make sure it’s inked in your Will.

Save Money for Your Family

Death and taxes might be the only guarantees in life—but money issues don’t stop even when you pass. Going to court for asset and estate issues can quickly deplete anyone’s bank account. But when you have a Will in place, you can help your loved ones sidestep a lot of red tape.

Prevent Family Conflicts

Characters are revealed when the word “inheritance” comes into play. Don’t leave your loved ones to battle it out. Make sure everyone plays nice even after you’re gone. A clear Will can quickly put a stop to arguments.

There are a lot of resolutions you could make in 2013, but few are this simple. We’re all about making legal work affordable and simple. Kick off the New Year right by getting organized and protecting your loved ones with a Will. It’s a resolution you can actually keep!

Ready to get started? It’s simple and affordable to get it done right with Rocket Lawyer. Visit our Estate Planning Center to create your Will and other essential estate planning documents.